The Dragonfly | A Home Away from Home
Three hops, two skips, and a jump…
If you choose to spend some time in the Mississippi River town of Savanna, Illinois, staying at The Dragonfly will be one of the best decisions you’ve ever made. The Dragonfly is in the downtown area, just a few steps from Main Street.
It’s all in a name.
Howard and Debbie Handler became the owners of this lovely home in May of 2021. The Handlers both grew up in the northern suburbs of Chicago and maintain their home in that area with their three children. Debbie is a school librarian, and Howard works as a government affairs professional and real estate. Debbie is a big Gilmore Girls fan, which inspired the name of their rental, The Dragonfly.
The 1882 building is believed to have been constructed as a single-family residence but was later partitioned into three individual apartments. The Dragonfly is a two-bedroom first-floor unit.
When the Handlers took possession of the house, they immediately began modifications to transform it into a short-term rental. The Dragonfly is open all year and is advertised on AirBnB and VRBO, with AirBnB being the primary site for visitors.
A good first season
Since July, the Handlers have been busy, and their autumn season is almost as booked as their summer season. As January and February approaches, the Handlers work to improve the unit. “We plan to install an electric fireplace to better attract those looking for a cozy, quaint winter getaway,” remarked Howard.
The owners follow all general COVID regulations. “The Dragonfly is entirely self-check-in, so no in-person interaction is required,” said Debbie. “The unit is professionally cleaned between each guest, and we meet or exceed Airbnb’s enhanced cleaning process.”
Make yourself at home.
When you get to The Dragonfly, you’ll see that street parking is often easy and plentiful. Visitors will find a spacious living area with a smart TV (Nintendo anyone? ), a three-season front room, a lovely kitchen, a small dining room, two spacious and light bedrooms, a bathroom, and a laundry room. Another advantage is that there are no overnight parking restrictions.
The Dragonfly’s kitchen is fully furnished and supplied with cooking utensils for guests’ use. The Handlers provide spices, oil, coffee, tea, and sweetener. In case a guest requires anything else, a full-service grocery shop is only a few minutes away.
Savanna is an excellent place to visit.
The Handlers say that most of their visitors come from the Chicago region or Iowa for weekend getaways, but they also have visitors from other states in town for family or business functions. The proprietors provide their customers with a comprehensive list of activities and restaurants in Savanna and surrounding areas in Illinois and Iowa.
“The majority of our visitors come to Savanna for a weekend escape–whether it’s a couple, a family, or a girls’ trip,” Howard explained. “They generally come for some outdoor activity, such as the Mississippi Palisades State Park, Galena, neighboring vineyards, and live music, to mention a few.”
Speaking of live music, you’re in luck because the town’s numerous pubs frequently feature bands. Featured musicians often perform outside on Main Street’s sidewalk. Ax throwing, ghost investigations, and an old-fashioned movie theater are among the other downtown attractions. The beginning (or finish) point of the 60-mile-plus Great River Trail is nearby for bikers and hikers.
Don’t just take my word for it.
Here are a few reviews from happy customers. It looks like some of you need to book a getaway to Savanna!
Kristin | October 2021
This home was perfect for my husband, two kids, and me. The host pulled out a very comfortable twin bed to add to the second bedroom, so our kids didn’t have to share a bed. The home was clean, comfortable, and nicely decorated. We could hear the neighbors upstairs and the train at times, but it wasn’t disruptive. The location is perfect for exploring savanna, the nearby state park, galena, and everything in between. The host is very responsive and proactive in their communication. Very easy to check-in and out. I would definitely stay here again!
Cara | November 2021
Very nice and cozy home. We enjoyed it a lot. Pretty area of the state. It was nice to be so close to the Mississippi River. Great Hosts! Thank you.
Michelle | September 2021
Adorable home and love the architectural character that an older home brings with it! I especially appreciated the flowers with the note to enjoy the stay, decaf coffee pods, loved the Lavender Aveeno Body Wash, and I had forgotten to pack the makeup remover towelettes. They had them in the bathroom for their guests!
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